The Paleo Post Podcast

Welcome back to The Paleo Post Podcast! We know this Halloween episode is arriving a little late—thanks for your patience as we welcome our amazing new producer and test out some fresh processes to bring you even better content. We hope the delay makes the spooky season linger just a little longer!

In this episode of the Paleo Post Podcast, we explore critical issues facing the National Museum of Kenya in Nairobi and the rich history it preserves—now at risk. The museum, home to priceless fossils like those discovered by the Leakey family, is facing serious challenges due to poor funding, deteriorating conditions, and a lack of resources to properly care for these irreplaceable artifacts.

Welcome to Episode 4 of The Paleo Post Podcast! In this exciting episode, we’re joined by Genevieve and George to dive deep into new discoveries in anthropology and paleolithic art! George shares the thrilling news about the confirmation of ancient cave art in South Wales—dated to over 17,000 years old! We also discuss groundbreaking new findings about Australopithecus anamensis and what it means for our understanding of early human ancestors, plus a conversation about the complexities of finding new fossils, using AI in archaeology, and how ancient landscapes hide clues to our past.

🎙️ Welcome to Episode 3 of Season 3 of The Paleo Post Podcast! This week, we’re excited to have the brilliant Genevieve von Petzinger join us for a fascinating discussion about the latest happenings in the world of paleoanthropology! 🌍 While George Nash is off on another exciting adventure, Genevieve and I take the reins to dive deep into what’s new in the field and the ongoing efforts to expand science communication around anthropology.

In this episode, we talk about how World of Paleoanthropology (WOPA) is working toward growing its impact in the scientific community. We’re in the process of forming a passionate and knowledgeable team to help us share the story of human evolution with the world. If you’re interested in joining our cause, we have an application form for volunteers (link in the description below) where you can get involved, no matter your skillset—whether you’re a writer, social media guru, or passionate about any branch of anthropology. This is your chance to make a difference and help us communicate science in new and engaging ways!

🚀 Beyond these exciting WOPA updates, we also dive into Genevieve’s latest project with National Geographic Learning. How cool is it that her work is now being featured in textbooks around the world? 🌎 From middle schoolers in Egypt to high schoolers in Australia, students are learning about human origins, and Genevieve’s contributions are helping shape their understanding. We discuss the evolution of her work over the last eight years, from her time as a National Geographic Emerging Explorer to her present-day role as an influential science communicator.

We then switch gears to talk about Neanderthals—one of the most intriguing and misunderstood species in our evolutionary history. With new discoveries challenging the old narrative of Neanderthals as simple brutes, we discuss their complex culture, art, and survival strategies. We explore how recent research, like the works of Ludovic Slimak and Rebecca Wragg Sykes, are reshaping the way we see our ancient relatives. Were Neanderthals more like us than we ever imagined? Or were they a distinct species with their own unique behaviors and cognitive abilities? We cover it all in this thought-provoking discussion.

Genevieve and I also tackle the critical role of culture in human evolution—how culture shapes not only our behaviors but also our very identity as a species. Without culture, what would humanity be? We explore the idea that culture is at the core of what makes us human, and how even Neanderthals might have had their own versions of it.

Finally, we reflect on the broader message of resilience and adaptability—traits that have defined not just us, but all our hominin ancestors. From surviving harsh environments to creating art, humans (and our ancient relatives) have proven to be resourceful, and as we face modern challenges, these lessons from our evolutionary past have never been more relevant.

🔗 Check out the application form and join our growing team to help share the wonders of anthropology with the world!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode of The Paleo Post Podcast. Your support helps us continue to bring these fascinating discussions to life!

Welcome to The Paleo Post Podcast, the show where we dig deep into the world of human origins, uncovering the latest discoveries and research that bring us closer to understanding our ancient ancestors. Whether you’re a seasoned anthropologist, a student of human evolution, or someone simply curious about where we come from, this podcast is for you. We break down complex topics into engaging discussions, with expert guests who have firsthand experience in the field of paleoanthropology.

In this exciting episode (Season 3, Episode 2), we’re taking you straight to the heart of one of the most significant archaeological sites of our time – the Rising Star Cave in South Africa. This is the very site where Homo naledi, a mysterious ancient hominin species, was discovered. What makes Homo naledi so fascinating is its unique blend of primitive and advanced features, challenging everything we thought we knew about the human family tree.

🔍 What to Expect in This Episode:

We’ve got an incredible panel lined up, featuring our own Seth Chagi (host and paleoanthropology enthusiast), Dr. Genevieve, and the renowned archaeologist and researcher Dr. George Nash, who recently attended the Homo naledi symposium in South Africa. Both George and Genevieve have been part of the Rising Star Expedition, exploring the very cave where Homo naledi’s remains were found. They bring a wealth of insider knowledge, offering unique perspectives on what it’s like to be part of such a historic project.

In this episode, George takes the lead as he shares exclusive updates from the recent symposium, where new revelations about Homo naledi were unveiled. From potential burial behaviors to clues about their cognitive abilities, we’ll explore the findings that are shaking up the field of human evolution.

Genevieve and I will also share updates on our own projects and discuss how these new discoveries are influencing the broader field of paleoanthropology. Whether you’re familiar with the story of Homo naledi or hearing about it for the first time, this episode promises to be full of insights and surprises.

💡 Key Highlights:

• Rising Star Cave and Homo naledi: Learn about the history of this excavation site and how it has transformed our understanding of ancient hominins.

• New Discoveries from the Symposium: Get the latest updates on Homo naledi—what the newest evidence tells us about their behavior, intelligence, and potential interactions with other species, including early humans.

• Personal Stories and Field Experiences: George and Genevieve share their experiences in the Rising Star Cave, from navigating the tight chambers to discovering fossils that have been hidden for hundreds of thousands of years.

• The Future of the Rising Star Project: We’ve got some exciting news about the ongoing research at the site and what we hope to uncover in the future.

🔮 Sneak Peek at Next Week’s Episode:

In Episode 3, we’re diving into the world of the Neanderthals! Genevieve and I will have a lively, fun discussion about these enigmatic cousins of ours—busting myths, exploring their culture, and seeing how they compare to modern humans. You won’t want to miss it!

Why This Episode Matters:

Homo naledi is a species that challenges the traditional linear view of human evolution. They lived at a time when other hominins, including early modern humans, were on the scene. The puzzle of how this small-brained, physically primitive species fits into our family tree continues to fascinate scientists, and with each new discovery, the mystery deepens.

This episode is packed with groundbreaking information that anyone, regardless of background, can appreciate. Whether you’re passionate about anthropology, interested in the latest scientific discoveries, or just love a good mystery, this conversation will give you a glimpse into the ongoing adventure of uncovering our shared evolutionary past.

Welcome to the exciting Season 3 premiere of the Paleo Post Podcast! In Episode 1, your hosts Seth Chagi, Genevieve von Petzinger, and Dr. George Nash bring you the latest and greatest updates from the fascinating world of paleoanthropology. This episode is packed with cutting-edge discoveries and intriguing insights, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in human origins and ancient history.

Calling all paleoanthropology enthusiasts! Get ready for an exhilarating episode of the PaleoPost Podcast. We're thrilled to welcome Dr. Aron Mazel, a renowned rock art expert who has unraveled the mysteries of ancient caves in South Africa and the U.K.

Hello, and welcome to this fantastic episode #PaleoPostPodcast! We had an absolute blast on this episode talking about gender roles in ancient societies: woman the hunter, men the gatherer; we talk about the potential first art in the world, which the mysterious Denisovans may have created! Or not! Listen to find out more!

Welcome to episode five of season two of the Paleo Post Podcast! We have a special episode for you and a special guest!